Mk II IRS coil over shock questions

[FFR5000-3]

Hello new to this site just purchased FFR5000 Love the car:o. I have the IRS and the shocks i assume are Bilsteins? also they are mounted rod end up is this correct? All pictures seem to have the rod end down? Also is it worth the money to change to the Koni's and could i do just the rear or would i have to do all 4?:confused: Thanks in advance, Jim

[Bob Cowan]

I'm not sure I know what an FFR5000 is, exactly.

The shocks could be Bilstein, Koni, or Pro-1. The Bilsteins are problamatic. A lot of them broke because of a poor design. If that's what you have, I would change all four.

Both the Koni's and the Pro-1's are pretty good. No need to change them unless you need to change the ride charectoristics.

Most of them are mounted rod end down, because that's the small end. There isn't much room around the lower mounting point. I would inspect that area very closely for any signs of hard contact or rubbing. Loosen the spring adjuster, and move the arm though it's entire range of motion, looking for contact. As long as it's all clear, there's no need to change anything.

[FFR5000-3]

Thank you Bob.
FFR5000 happens to be my seriel number MkII number 5000. Woohoo. Anyway they arent Koni's so one of the others. I need to adjust ride height a little is all. I read about the Bilsteins that is why i was concerned? With it jacket up and all tension off the spring of course, I tried loosening the set screw and holding the threaded plactic looking thing w one hand and turn the adjusting collar with the other hand which did not work. Collar does not move freely Is there a trick to it other than pulling them off to do it? Thanks in advance for your prompt and helpful responce. Jim

[Bob Cowan]

#5000 - that's pretty cool! You have an original FFR5000 - 1 of 1. Way cool.

Anyway, if they're gold, then they're probably Pro-1's. A fine shock with no problems at all. As long they're working, leave them alone.

Koni shocks are red. But I think the Bilsteins were also red. You'll just have to remove them and see what they are.

The adjusting collers should just turn by hand once the single set screw. but, dirt and junk can gum up the works. Clean them well, and give the a good application of penetrating oil. Hint: WD-40 is NOT a penetrating oil.